Our View: Industrial park brings hope to Hi-Line

Plans are moving ahead for the industrial park southwest of Havre.

Under an agreement this week, the Havre Fire Department will now cover that area. And work is beginning toward creation of a tax increment finance district.

Much needs to be done, but the project is going in the right direction.

The idea is to have an area that local leaders can show potential employers. Competition for manufacturing jobs is high, but Havre has a lot to offer, and an industrial park may be just what is needed to lure potential employers.

Montana State University-Northern is a leader in the development of biodiesel technology, and some kind of manufacturing connected with that research would fit in well. A business connected to the area's vast farming resources would be ideal for the plant. The opportunities are unlimited.

Havre will have a hard time attracting industry. The industrial sector nationwide has not been booming in recent years, but there are many opportunities. Havre has the work force and the quality of life that can attract many industries.

There is a desperate need for jobs that can help keep or attract young people to the area. We've seen too many people leave the area for lack of opportunities. The industrial park will help open the door to those opportunities.

As with many valuable projects on the Hi-Line, Bear Paw Development Corp. is spearheading the effort.

Kudos to the Bear Paw staff, county officials, many community leaders and the Havre Fire Department for their efforts to bring this vital project to fruition. We all wish it could move faster, but it is going in the right direction.